Sigetronics, a Korean semiconductor device manufacturer, announced on the 19th that it has successfully commercialized a flip-chip type transient voltage suppressor (TVS) device—considered a high-difficulty semiconductor technology.

The company has fully localized the technology and established a mass production system using its own in-house semiconductor fabrication facility, M-FAB, marking a major milestone in domestic semiconductor manufacturing.

TVS devices are essential components that protect electronic circuits from sudden voltage spikes. Unlike conventional wire bonding methods, the flip-chip approach allows the chip to be mounted directly onto the substrate. This enhances current-driving capability while minimizing unwanted electrical signal interference.

The new device offers particular advantages in line with the growing use of high-power LEDs in automotive electronics. By enabling the LED and TVS device to be mounted together on a single substrate, it improves both design flexibility and durability.

In addition to automotive lighting, the product is suitable for a wide range of applications, including mobile devices such as smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches, as well as IoT sensors and data ports like USB and HDMI. It is expected to see strong demand in compact next-generation electronics where board space is at a premium.

Traditional flip-chip TVS devices have struggled with inconsistent quality due to the use of gold-tin (AuSn) alloy metal pads. However, Sigetronics resolved this issue with its proprietary metal pad processing technology, which improves chip adhesion and prevents metal spreading, significantly enhancing reliability.

The product meets IEC 61000-4-2 Level 4 electrostatic discharge (ESD) standards and has passed automotive-grade reliability testing. It is available in a variety of configurations to meet customer specifications. Several of the world’s top five LED manufacturers have already adopted the product, and the company is expanding its collaboration with global partners such as Lumileds.

Sigetronics plans to expand its TVS product lineup, offering voltage ratings from 7V to 70V and chip sizes ranging from 200×100 μm² to 500×250 μm².

A company official commented, “This product is expected to play a significant role in the ultra-compact, ultra-thin electronics market, with applications not only in automotive LEDs but also in smart appliances, IoT devices, and industrial sensors.”